Korat

The Korat is an ancient natural domestic cat breed from Thailand, known for its silver-tipped blue coat and distinctive heart-shaped head structure.

Early records of this feline date back to the Ayutthaya Kingdom between 1350 and 1767, where it appeared in the ancient illustrated manuscript Tamra Maew, or The Cat-Book Poems. Known locally as the Si-Sawat, the cat was considered an auspicious talisman of fortune, rain, and prosperity. People traditionally presented matched pairs to newlyweds or dignitaries rather than selling them. Western introduction took place when Jean Johnson imported two cats named Nara and Darra from Bangkok to the United States in 1959. Recognition followed quickly, with the Cat Fanciers' Association according championship status in 1966, followed by the Fédération Internationale Féline in 1980.

Adult males weigh 4-5 kg (9-11 lb), displaying a compact, muscular build that feels surprisingly dense when lifted. A single short coat lies smoothly against the frame without an undercoat, showing a uniform silver-tipped blue color with an optical luminescence often called sea-foam sheen. Large peridot green eyes dominate a face defined by pronounced brow ridges and cheek arches. Temperament is gentle, highly observant, and intensely loyal. This cat enjoys interactive games, forms tight bonds with its chosen family, and frequently monitors household routines from elevated perches.

Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush easily removes shedding hair from the single coat. Because the breed lacks an insulating undercoat, individuals remain sensitive to cold drafts and rapid temperature drops. Health issues documented within the gene pool include GM1 and GM2 gangliosidosis, inherited lysosomal storage diseases causing severe motor impairment. Other conditions that can occur in the breed are patellar luxation and feline lower urinary tract disease.